Comments on: Our first mistake

By: Paulie

Paulie — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:18:16 +0000

@Natalie & @Justin - So you're not going to be carrying around Katanas? That's a real bummer! That would be a HUGE theft-deterrent for me. I'd be like, "Don't rob the ninjas they'll exact ruthless revenge! Look at their swords!" Locks and cables are always good too. Though locks and cables never stopped Shredder...

By: Justin

Justin — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:48:44 +0000

@Paulie - By Ninjas, I believe Natalie means that we will be using security cables and locks to deter theft. I will take some pictures when we get the chance. Admittedly, it is not a perfect system. However, I believe it will present an effective theft deterrent.

By: Nathan Dragun

Nathan Dragun — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:35:23 +0000

@Natalie - .... what? I'm not going with you. What are you talking about?

By: Natalie

Natalie — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:01:00 +0000

What are our theft-deterrent measures?

One Word: Ninjas!

By: Paulie

Paulie — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 02:47:21 +0000

I know this discussion is mostly dead, as the post is over two weeks old, but what did you guys decide on as far as theft-deterrent measures?

By: Natalie

Natalie — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 22:38:17 +0000

Hello everyone,

Thank you for all of the advice, ideas, and experience that you have shared. I cannot begin to express just how valuable the information you have shared is. Not only Justin and I benefit, but other backpackers will as well.

As for “Our First Mistake”, my mom and grandma are coming to the rescue. My grandma and grandpa (Happy 82nd Birthday today!) will be bringing my dress and Justin’s suit to Italy for us. My mom and dad will be bringing my heels and Justin’s shoes.

Thanks for transporting our fancy wedding threads over to Italy for us! Philip and Amy will be happy to see us dressed up on their wedding day.

As for leaving our backpacks in hostels without lockers, we will plan on taking some of the theft deterrence measures. Thanks again for sharing!

You guys are incredible. And Sarah, I will be sure to have a crostini for you while in Perugia. While describing our adventures in Italy I may even share how delicious the crostini was. I wish you were going with us too!

By: Sarah

Sarah — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:43:06 +0000

Hello!
It is relatively easy to get robbed in Rome, though it is rumored that it is even easier to get robbed in Napoli & Sicilia. Be super aware on the subway in Rome. The lockers were the way to go in my day…so I would vote on the train station solution together with some good locks.
While in Perugia, can you please eat some crostini for me? Please? This this the Rolls Royce of toast, and yes! It is that good (and easy to tell if it is veggie).
Wish I was going with you,
Sarah

By: Justin

Justin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:24:49 +0000

Thank you all for your many thoughts and ideas regarding the subject of hostel security. You have given me a lot to think on. Clearly, the easiest way to prevent theft is to learn to think like a thief!

By: Shawn

Shawn — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 16:06:27 +0000

I agree with Christine, when I was hosteling in California, before I left the country, everyone would leave their clothes and bags, or pack on their bed, except in San Francisco and LA where they have lockers.

If someone steals my clothes then they must need them more then myself. I would be more than happy to buy new clothes.

By: Christine Gilbert

Christine Gilbert — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 18:40:32 +0000

I agree with Range, getting one of those backpack locks is a good way to go. Personally, I lock up my laptop and camera and leave the clothes and pack on my bed. I see lots of people leave their packs behind for the day, without a lock. But if you have expensive gear, it’s not worth the risk. Especially if people at the hostel will have the opportunity to see you using it, you might tempt someone who otherwise would leave your stuff alone. Is it possible to have the staff lock it up for you behind the reception desk?